29 Best Views of NYC: Manhattan Skyline and More

New York City is one of the most exciting and buzzing cities in the world. But what draws millions of tourists to this US metropolis are the spectacular views of NYC. The towering skyscrapers include one of the 10 highest buildings in the world and multiple of the tallest buildings in the USA. 

Your options to experience one of the world’s most impressive skylines are endless. It is well worth it to take in the best views of NYC from different angles and perspectives.

Besides walking through the streets in between the colossal skyscrapers, it is also a great idea to get on top of the world and look down at the busy streets and get some panoramic skyline views in NYC from above.

We only live 1.5 hours away from NYC, which makes it hard to resist. There are simply too many adventures waiting for us. Since we know that admission prices can sum up, we came up with a detailed list of the free best views in NYC to save you some money. 

Nevertheless, we highly recommend visiting at least a couple of other places which require payment to admire New York City best views. 

This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through them, we get a small commission at no extra cost to you. It helps us create free content for you to enjoy. Learn more about our disclaimer here. Thanks for your support!

Our Other Resources for New York City

• 4-Day New York Itinerary
• The Ultimate List of Things to Do in NYC in the Winter
• 59 Best Places in Manhattan to Visit
• Broadway Dress Code: How to Dress for a Show
• 40 Perfect Road Trips from New York City to Take
• 100+ NYC Bucket List Items: Best Things to Do
• 42 Best Things to do in NYC at Night
• Green-Wood Cemetery: Visit Brooklyn’s Unique Attraction
• 25+ Best Non Touristy Things to Do in NYC

Helpful Travel Planning Tools

Best Free Views of NYC

You don’t always have to pay to get stunning views of NYC. Just walking around in Manhattan, admiring the gigantic buildings leaves us speechless every time. But there are other free experiences you shouldn’t miss. 

The following best free views of NYC are sorted by their boroughs. Beginning with Manhattan, Brooklyn, and Queens. For some excellent views from across the Hudson River, we would recommend taking a train to Liberty State Park or Hoboken New Jersey.

1. Central Park (Manhattan)

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Central Park is easily one of the most recognizable features in Manhattan which provide numerous Manhattan romantic views. 

The most popular views in Central Park include the following landmarks:

• Belvedere Castle
• Bethesda Fountain and Terrace
• Loeb Boathouse
• The Mall
• Conservatory Water
• Strawberry Fields
• Central Park Reservoir
• Bow Bridge

But to be honest, we rather stroll through the park than checking off the spots from the list because there are so many unknown places that unexpectedly have the city view of New York you are looking for. 

Don’t forget the park is massive. To cross it from south to north will take you at least an hour by foot. 

There are so many different ways in which you can explore and enjoy the park. A really fun option is to rent a bike to see all the highlights. 

Top Tip: Check out this bike map for Central Park.

If you prefer participating in a tour, you will also find endless possibilities in Central Park. There are bike tours, walking tours, and Pedicab tours available. You can even book a photo tour to help you capture all the beautiful views of the park. 

And when you are tired of roaming around, you can take a break and relax on the Great Lawn. This is a great spot to have a picnic, read a book, relax, play a game, or watch people.

2. Times Square (Manhattan)

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Times Square is probably one of the most well-known spots in Manhattan and a major tourist destination. 

When we are in Times Square we love to just stand still for a second, look all around, and take in the feel of the square. No matter how often you visit, it always looks different due to the changing displays on the screens, and different street performers. 

Trying to get a picture without the crowds of tourists? Good luck. Don’t forget, there is a reason why they call New York “The City That Never Sleeps.” But Times Square will give you the city view of New York everyone is craving for. 

Top Tip: Looking for a unique restaurant right at Times Square? Check out Ellen’s Stardust Diner, which is dedicated to Broadway. Singing waiters and waitresses perform at their best to earn some money to make their dream of working in a Broadway show come true.

3. The High Line (Manhattan)

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Walk along NYC’s 1.45-mile High Line park as you wind your way through the West Side neighborhood from above. The High Line is one of the more unique New York City parks as it was built on an old elevated freight rail line that delivered cargo. Once this method of transportation of goods became obsolete, it was decided to convert the space into a park.

For the best experience and views in New York, try to visit during the spring and summer when the flowers and plants are alive. Although no matter when you walk the High Line, you always spot intriguing murals, art, and sculptures. 

Some of our favorite New York views from the High Line are looking down the city streets which are lined with buildings and tons of busy people rushing through the city. You will also get a great view of the Edge observation deck when you make your way toward the Hudson Yards district.

4. Little Island (Manhattan)

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Little Island is New York City’s newest green space located at Pier 55 in Manhattan. The area opened in the spring of 2021 which transformed the old pier into an artificial island park with romantic views in New York. 

The park is free of charge and can be visited 365 days a year unless there are severe weather occurrences. Even though the park is not that big, make sure to plan some time to check out the various viewpoints and attractions Little Island has to offer. 

The park includes eloquently designed walkways lined with flowers, trees, and shrubs, a lawn space, a 687-seat amphitheater, and an intimate stage that showcases gorgeous views of Hudson River Park and the Hudson River. Of course, you also won’t miss these precious NYC views. 

5. View of NYC from Manhattan Bridge (Manhattan)

Enjoy a lesser-known view of NYC from the Manhattan Bridge which connects Manhattan’s Chinatown to the neighborhood of DUMBO in Brooklyn. 

Deciding to walk across the Manhattan Bridge rather than the more popular Brooklyn Bridge will be a less crowded and much quieter way to cross the East River from Manhattan to Brooklyn.

Take the walk across the bridge for impressive views of Chinatown, Brooklyn Bridge, Williamsburg Bridge, and the Manhattan skyline. 

6. View of NYC from Brooklyn Bridge (Manhattan)

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The easily recognizable Brooklyn Bridge, which connects the boroughs of Manhattan and Brooklyn, is a quintessential New York City attraction. Visitors can walk the length of the bridge via a pedestrian walkway. 

As you cross over the bridge you will get the best views in New York of both Manhattan and Brooklyn. See the famous city view of the towering Manhattan skyline but also make sure to take a look up the East River and marvel at the Manhattan Bridge and Williamsburg Bridge. 

Since the bridge never closes, you can visit anytime. For a special treat, go during sunset to get a New York City night view as the city transitions from being lit up by the sun to being illuminated by the thousands of city lights. 

7. View of NYC from Roosevelt Island + Roosevelt Island Tram (Manhattan)

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Take a fun ride on the Roosevelt Island Tram over to Roosevelt Island after a quick swipe of your Metro Card. The tram connects Manhattan’s Upper East Side to Roosevelt Island. 

This experience will provide you with the most modern aerial NYC views. As you travel over the East River, take a look up and down the river. 

Once on Roosevelt Island, walk along the East River to see different perspectives of the east side of Manhattan. Make your way to Franklin D. Roosevelt Four Freedoms State Park for a grand city view of New York down the river. 

8. View of NYC from Governors Island (Manhattan)

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The 172-acre island in New York Harbor lies a few hundred yards south of Manhattan. Governor’s Island attracts many visitors for its 43-acre public park, art and cultural exhibits, and recreational activities. 

You can enjoy a relaxing afternoon and evening by walking around, taking a ride on a bike, or having a picnic in the park, all while enjoying the New York City skyline. 

Just hop on a ferry heading to Governors Island from the Battery Maritime Building, located at 10 South Street in Lower Manhattan, or from the South Brooklyn Route, with stops on the Lower East Side, Wall Street, and along the Brooklyn waterfront.

This is a great spot to catch a New York City night view.

9. Brooklyn Bridge Park + Brooklyn Heights Promenade (Brooklyn)

Brooklyn Bridge Park is located along the East River near the Brooklyn Bridge. This green space provides a relaxing atmosphere to take in the view of the NY City skyline and Brooklyn Bridge.  

Another great view of the Manhattan skyline is from the nearby Brooklyn Heights Promenade. This pedestrian walkway runs along the East River floating over the Brooklyn-Queens Expressway in Brooklyn Heights. Take a stroll and see the Brooklyn Bridge and the best view New York City from different angles. 

10. Dumbo, Brooklyn – Washington Street and Water Street (Brooklyn)

After walking over the Brooklyn Bridge you will reach this Instagram photo hot spot in Dumbo at the end of a brick-paved city street. The intersection of Washington Street and Water Street blew up on social media a couple of years ago for its striking view of the Manhattan Bridge.

Snap a quick photo of yourself with a bunch of other tourists and then walk down the street to Pebble Beach for more views of NYC skylines.  

11. Pebble Beach (Brooklyn)

Pebble Beach is located in Bridge Park in Dumbo, Brooklyn. It is a waterfront rocky beach area with sweeping views of New York City skyline and Brooklyn Bridge. 

Take a rest for a few minutes at the beach and enjoy the view before walking along the East River towards the Brooklyn Bridge for more best views in NYC.

12. Green-Wood Cemetery (Brooklyn)

Green-Wood Cemetery is a 478-acre cemetery in Brooklyn which connects today’s world to the world of the past. 

The cemetery highlights the historical significance of the dead, preserves the architectural art of statuary and mausoleums, and captivates the natural beauty of New York with romantic views of a landscape that is overcome with century and a half-year-old trees. 

Take a walk and/or drive through the cemetery without forgetting to get out to admire this one-of-a-kind city view of New York. You don’t want to miss out on hidden views of NYC that are scattered throughout the cemetery. 

One of the best times to visit the cemetery is in the spring when the abundance of Cherry Blossom trees is in bloom. The beauty of the trees compared with the mystic atmosphere of the cemetery totally blew us away. Green-Wood Cemetery is one of our favorite places to catch the cherry blossoms in the entire city. 

13. East River State Park (Brooklyn)

East River State Park is also referred to as the Williamsburg Waterfront. It offers breathtaking views of the NYC skyline and Williamsburg Bridge. 

The 7-acre park stretches along the East River near North 7th, 8th, and 9th streets. Besides a beautiful view of New York, the park also has exciting play areas and beautiful green spaces for recreation and relaxation. 

14. Gantry Plaza State Park (Queens)

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The 12-acre Gantry Plaza State Park lies on the East River in Queens, New York. 

As you stroll along the 4 piers and through the gardens, look up and check out the incredible views of the Midtown Manhattan skyline with the Empire State Building and United Nations Secretariat Building. 

As a bonus, head to the park for sunset to see the colorful sky linger behind the New York night skyline before it transforms into the city of lights. 

15. View of NYC from Staten Island Ferry (Staten Island)

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There are many ways of experiencing the exceptional views of NYC from the water but only one of them is absolutely free. 

If you try to save some money, take a ride in the New York Harbor on the Staten Island Ferry. For an added bonus you will also get up closer to the Statue of Liberty. 

The ferry starts from Whitehall Terminal, which stands on the southern tip of Lower Manhattan, and ends in the St. George Ferry Terminal in Staten Island. If you are not interested in spending some time on Staten Island, just get back on the ferry and immediately enjoy your ride to Manhattan.

The Staten Island Ferry runs 24 hours a day 7 days a week with more frequent trips on weekdays during rush hours. Check out the ferry schedule to better plan your trip. 

16. Liberty State Park (New Jersey)

Liberty State Park is located directly across from Liberty Island and Ellis Island. The park offers beautiful views of the skyline in Manhattan, the Statue of Liberty, and New York Harbor. 

Don’t overlook the beauty of this spot when searching for the best views of NYC just because it does not lie within the center of New York City. You will be quite happy with your city views from this location. 

While there, make sure to check out the Empty Sky Memorial which is a heartfelt memorial for the New Jersey victims of the September 11th terrorist attack. 

From Liberty State Park, you can also catch a ferry over to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island for more scenic views of NYC. Note, that you will have to pay for the ferry ride to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island.

17. Hoboken (New Jersey)

Hoboken is a vibrant neighborhood located across the Hudson River on the opposite side of Manhattan. It is full of parks, international restaurants, breweries, cute shops, and of course splendid views of NYC.

Grab lunch and a blanket, and head over to Pier A park for the best panorama of the NYC skyline and enjoy a picnic with a view. 

Best Views in NYC Where Payment is Required

Even though there are some great free options to get stunning views of NYC, it is well worth it to pay some money to expand your perspective. 

Get a bird’s-eye view by visiting one or even more of New York City’s observation decks, sip a drink on one of the outstanding rooftop bars or the unique restaurant with a view, or get out on the water for the best panoramic views of NYC.

18. Edge NYC

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One of New York’s newer observation points, Edge NYC, is the highest outdoor sky deck in the western hemisphere. This unparalleled New York view is located in Hudson Yards. 

Don’t miss out on this unique experience! Take a step out on the edge of New York, literally, on the suspended mid-air platform which provides vistas of the New York City skyline. When this isn’t enough, look down through the glass floors to see what the views of NYC from 100 stories above look like. 

Make sure to purchase tickets for Edge NYC in advance. 

19. Empire State Building

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A visit to the Empire State Building is a staple for a trip to New York City. This 102-story Art Deco skyscraper is an essential part of the Manhattan skyline in Midtown Manhattan. 

Here, you can take in views of NYC from two observation decks located on the 86th floor and 102nd floor. The major differences between the two decks are the height, the vantage point, and viewing style. 

The 86th floor is the main observation deck, an open-air platform that spirals around the building. One disadvantage of this deck is the obstructed criss-cross wiring pattern you have to look through to view New York City. Nevertheless, this platform is often crowded.

The newer 102nd-floor observation deck provides unobstructed views from the highest level of the Empire State Building with floor-to-ceiling glass windows. 

For truly the best view of New York City, head to the 102nd-floor deck where you will see the entire length of Manhattan. Try to spot the major NYC landmarks such as the Statue of Liberty, Times Square, Central Park, and much more. 

Purchase tickets for the observation decks at the Empire State Building in time to make sure you can visit during your designated time.

20. One World Observatory

One World Observatory at World Trade Center is currently the tallest skyscraper in the United States. Visitors can get expansive views of NYC from over 100 stories over the city streets.  

At the top, you have a rare 360-degree view of New York City. From here you can see Manhattan, the East River, Brooklyn Bridge, and New York Harbor with the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, and Governor’s Island

For a one of a kind city view of New York, step out onto the Sky Portal, a 14-foot wide circle of glass that provides clear views of the city streets 100 stories below you. It is truly one of the most unforgettable best views NYC has to offer. The portal is even equipped with real-time, high-definition footage of the street below to help you see what’s happening thousands of feet down on the city streets. 

Purchase tickets for One World Observatory online ahead of time to avoid the crowds.

21. Top of the Rock

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The Top of the Rock observation deck highlights the best views in New York City from Midtown Manhattan. It is located at the top of Rockefeller Center. Here you will have sweeping views overlooking Central Park, Midtown, and the city skyscrapers in Lower Manhattan. 

At the Top of the Rock, there are actually 3 different decks ranging from completely indoor to a breezeway, and an open-air roof deck. The first deck on the 67th floor has the Radiance Wall which consists of beautifully decorated glass panels created by Swarovski, and a gift shop, the second deck on the 69th floor has a breezeway, and the third deck on the 70th floor is an open air deck with unobstructed views of NYC. 

If you are looking for a New York City night view, then this is your spot. We would suggest trying to visit right around sunset so you can see the city in daylight and in the dark to watch the stunning daily transformation of New York City being illuminated by lights. 

Purchase tickets for your trip to Top of the Rock for some of the best views of NYC during the day and at night.

22. The Vessel

The Vessel is a unique architectural building in NYC that attracts a lot of visitors. Its spiraling staircase allows visitors to get a variety of perspectives, angles, heights, and vantage points of Manhattan. 

To reach the ultimate view of NYC you will have to take the 154 labyrinthine-style flights of stairs, which include 2,500 individual steps, and 80 landings climb. 

Note: Unfortunately, the Vessel is still temporarily closed (as of July 2022) but you can visit the ground-level base for free during the opening hours. Please visit the Vessel website for up to date information. 

23. The View Restaurant & Lounge

Satisfy your hunger with delicious fine dining at The View Restaurant, a unique revolving rooftop restaurant. As you slowly move in a circle you will get a scenic panoramic city view of New York, Midtown. 

The restaurant’s revolving floor completes a 360-degree turn every hour which secures a constant change of perspective. With the combination of views of NYC and superb culinary delicates, The View Restaurant is the ultimate dining experience in New York. 

Top Tip: Fine dining doesn’t always have to be expensive. Twice a year, in the winter and the summer, you can participate in NYC Restaurant Week. Various restaurants offer 3-course meals or 4-course meals for a great price. We visited the View Restaurant during Restaurant Week and snagged a great deal.

24. NYC Rooftop Bars 

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New York City is filled with great bars and restaurants, especially ones with NYC best views. Enjoy epic NYC vistas while living your best life sipping on cocktails and drinks. New York’s rooftop bars are also great to visit to catch an NYC night view. 

We can highly recommend The Pier 17 rooftop bar. It is not as high as other bars in NYC but offers exclusive events in every season, like mini lawns to sip cocktails with your friends in the summer, or heated glass pavilions to enjoy a cheese fondue in the winter. Also check out the concerts on Pier 17, held in front of the iconic Brooklny Bridge.

For a complete list of the best rooftop bars in NYC, check out this guide.

25. Ellis Island

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Did you ever wonder what it was like to arrive in New York as an immigrant back in the day? Then it is time for you to take the ferry over to Ellis Island. 

Ellis Island was once the busiest immigrant inspection port in the entire United States. From the years of 1892 to 1954, approximately 12 million immigrants arrived at the Port of New York/New Jersey and were processed there under federal law.

Today, visitors can step out of the ferry boat and take a step back in time to imagine what it was like to arrive as an immigrant. You can take a free audio tour through the building to learn more about the process of immigration. 

From the island and ferry boat, you have incredible views of the Manhattan skyline and probably even the best view in New York Harbor. 

26. Liberty Island – Statue of Liberty

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The Statue of Liberty is located on Liberty Island in New York Harbor. It was a gift of friendship from the French and now symbolizes freedom and democracy.

Interested in taking a visit over to see this beautiful statue and climb up into the crown? There are a couple of companies that can help you out. The tickets to see the Statue of Liberty always include the ferry boat ride to Liberty Island and a visit to Ellis Island. 

Similar to Ellis Island, Liberty Island provides clear views of New York City skyline and the New York Harbor. 

27. Boat Tours & Cruise in NYC → Get Your Guide

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Appreciate NYC views from the water on a boat tour and cruise around the city. You can choose from a variety of tours and cruises which make their way around New York to see famous landmarks and sights from the Hudson and East Rivers. 

It is up to you if you want to make the whole loop of Manhattan island on a 2.5-hour cruise, take the bright yellow hop-on hop-off water taxis, enjoy a romantic sunset sail, dance on a party cruise, or take a speedboat for your ultimate NYC experience with a view.

• 1-hour cruise around the Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island
• Circle Line Best of NYC Cruise
• Circle Line Landmark Cruise
• Luxury Harbor Cruises
• Circle Line Harbor Light Cruise
• Manhattan Skyline Dinner Cruise

Ultimate Views of NYC from the Sky

For the ultimate bird’s eye view of Manhattan and the surrounding area, get even higher up in a plane or helicopter. If you fly into New York City, we can highly recommend getting a window seat for some breathtaking views of NYC. Can you imagine a better welcome gift?

For a more exclusive experience, take a helicopter ride over Manhattan. That adventure comes with a price but you can be sure to make some unforgettable memories.

28. Manhattan Skyline from an Airplane

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Traveling to or from New York City shockingly offers some of the best New York City views. Catching a glimpse of the skyline of NY is breathtaking from the tiny oval window on an airplane. 

It is a sight that never gets old no matter how many times you have flown over New York. Seeing New York from above really gives you a perspective of the size and beauty of the city. It will be hard to beat this best view in NYC. 

29. Helicopter Ride over Manhattan

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If you are looking for a more exclusive view of the New York City skyline, take a helicopter ride. This thrilling activity provides unlimited aerial views of the famous NYC landmarks. Even though it is a tad pricey, it is an experience that can not be beaten with iconic views of NYC.

Map of the Best Views of NYC

Where to Stay in New York City

Manhattan is a great area to stay in when you are visiting New York City. It is right in the heart of the city and all of the attractions and famous landmarks will be in close proximity.

Unfortunately, this big advantage comes with a huge price tag. It is very difficult to get a reasonable price for accommodation in New York’s most famous neighborhood. If you don’t mind treating yourself to a nice hotel/hostel in the heart of New York, we can highly recommend staying in these accommodations:

• HI New York City(Hostel)
  Especially when you are traveling alone, staying in a hostel is a great way of finding new travel buddies. This clean and modern hostel is located in close proximity to Central Park and offers a garden with barbecue grills and a picnic area and a beautiful hang-out area inside. For a quick bite, grab something from the snack bar/ deli.

• Dream Midtown
  The 4-star Boutique hotel Dream Midtown is also located right next to Central Park which makes it the perfect base to explore the best places in Manhattan. The real crown jewel is the stunning rooftop bar. Enjoy some delicious drinks surrounded by the iconic New York skyline before getting back to your beautifully designed room which is just minutes away. In these beds, you will get the best rest possible.

• The Time New York
  The Time New York lets you stay in the entertainment district itself, Times Square. This stylish hotel is your perfect choice when you want to indulge in luxury (for a reasonable price) and be located in the perfect spot for all your NYC adventures.

If you are like us and rather spend money on adventures and experiences, take a closer look at the more affordable accommodations in neighborhoods like Hoboken across the Hudson River or Newark. We listed some great options which are just a little more far away below:

• The Holland Hotel(Jersey City)
  43 minutes to Times Square by public transportation

• Fairfield Inn & Suites Newark Liberty International Airport(Newark)
  1h 5min to Times Square by public transportation

Which views of NYC do you like the most? What is your favorite spot to see the famous skyline?

Let us know in the comments below!

Our Other Resources for New York City

• 4-Day New York Itinerary
• The Ultimate List of Things to Do in NYC in the Winter
• 59 Best Places in Manhattan to Visit
• Broadway Dress Code: How to Dress for a Show
• 40 Perfect Road Trips from New York City to Take
• 100+ NYC Bucket List Items: Best Things to Do
• 42 Best Things to do in NYC at Night
• Green-Wood Cemetery: Visit Brooklyn’s Unique Attraction
• 25+ Best Non Touristy Things to Do in NYC

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